Best San Jose to Madison Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Jose to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,139 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 San Jose to Madison moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose compared to Madison. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best San Jose to Madison Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC | 9.24 | 9.14 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Madison
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,139 miles from San Jose, CA to Madison, WI will cost on average $3,600 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Madison move is roughly $8,691. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,415 | 300 ft³ | 8.05 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,600 | 450 ft³ | 8.00 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,963 | 750 ft³ | 7.95 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,691 | 1100 ft³ | 7.90 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,561 | 1600 ft³ | 7.85 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,041 | 1800 ft³ | 7.80 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Madison Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
310 Progress Way Suite 140
Sun Prairie, WI, 53590
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
San Carlos, CA, 94070
About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184868 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2022) |
The Go To Guys, LLC
Bayside, WI, 53217
About The Go To Guys, LLC
The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
San Jose vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide is here to ease this transition. By comparing neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Madison, WI , we aim to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings using areas you know from your current city as a baseline. Discover which Madison neighborhood mirrors your favorite in San Jose.
| San Jose | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown San Jose | State Street Area | Vibrant nightlife and cultural hub |
| Willow Glen | Nakoma League | Family-friendly with a historic feel |
| Silver Creek | Blackhawk | Upscale living with scenic views |
| Almaden Valley | Shorewood Hills | Quiet, nature-bound, affluent area |
| Japantown | Atwood Avenue | Diverse with unique local businesses |
| Rose Garden | Maple Bluff | Elegant homes and community-centric |
| The Alameda | Monroe Street | Charming with a blend of old and new |
| SoFA District | Willy Street | Artsy and full of character |
| Evergreen | Sherman | Family-oriented with good schools |
| Berryessa | Sun Prairie | Growing, with accessible amenities |
If the tree-lined streets and historic homes of Willow Glen have captured your heart, you'll find a similar charm in Madison's Nakoma League, known for its welcoming community and picturesque setting. For those who adore the vibrant nightlife and eclectic scene of Downtown San Jose, State Street in Madison offers an equally compelling mix of entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences, with its bustling atmosphere tailor-made for night owls and culture enthusiasts alike. Nature lovers moving from the serene neighborhoods like Almaden Valley will appreciate Shorewood Hills for its emphasis on preserving natural beauty while offering upscale living. Each Madison neighborhood boasts unique attributes, ranging from Atwood Avenue's diverse, arts-driven community reminiscent of Japantown to the family-oriented essence of Sherman, echoing the community vibes found in Evergreen.
Things to Do in Madison
Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens.- Discover history at Wisconsin State Capitol.
- Enjoy a concert at Overture Center for the Arts.
- Kayak on Lake Mendota.
- Sample cheese at Fromagination.
- Bike the Capital City Trail.
- Attend a Madison Mallards game.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Jose to Madison
Moving can be a life-changing adventure, especially when considering relocating from San Jose, CA to Madison, WI. This guide provides an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks tied to such a significant change. Through comparing the cons and pros, you get a clearer picture of what to expect, assisting in making this transition as smooth as possible.
San Jose, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Competitive job market
Madison, WI- More affordable
- Less congestion
- Diverse opportunities
Madison, WI- Cold winters
- Smaller tech scene
- Less diversity
San Jose, CA- Mild winters
- Technology hub
- Diverse culture
San Jose's status as a technology hub means leaving behind an ecosystem teeming with innovation and diverse cultural offerings. However, Madison counters with its charming locales and a more affordable lifestyle. For instance, leave behind the bustling streets and find serenity in Madison's neighborhood parks such as Olin Park or explore unique dining experiences at restaurants like Graze. Moreover, Madison's vibrant State Street offers a plethora of shops, eateries, and venues, contrasting with San Jose's Silicon Valley-driven environment. This move signifies not just a change of scenery but a shift towards a different pace of life, with each city holding its own unique set of pros and cons.
San Jose vs. Madison Food Guide
When considering a move, the local cuisine is a crucial part of what makes a place feel like home. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Madison to help you get a taste of the culinary scene in your new city.
| San Jose | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pho | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Pho | Vegan Cheese Curds |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Jose, you'll quickly notice the city's affinity for flavors from around the globe, particularly its renowned Vietnamese cuisine, like Pho, easily found in the vibrant downtown area. The prevalence of street food, especially tacos, highlights the city's Mexican influence. Among the bustling food scene, Falafel's Drive-In stands out for its unique take on American and Middle Eastern cuisine. Madison, on the other hand, is a haven for cheese lovers. Not only will you find traditional Cheese Curds, but also vegan versions to cater to all dietary preferences. Restaurants like L'Etoile showcase the farm-to-table philosophy that pervades Madison's food scene, emphasizing local Wisconsin ingredients. Both cities offer vibrant, diverse culinary scenes, but each with its local twist that you'll get to explore and enjoy.
San Jose vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Deciding on a new home involves more than just finding a house; it's about discovering the small joys that make a place feel like home. Food plays a critical role in this journey. To ease your transition from San Jose, CA to Madison, WI, we've crafted a restaurant comparison guide. Using this, you can find your next favorite dining spots by drawing parallels with familiar favorites back in San Jose.
| San Jose | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Manresa | L'Etoile | High-end dining with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. |
| Original Joe's | The Old Fashioned | Classic American fare with a Wisconsin twist. |
| Falafel Drive-In | Mediterreneo | Casual spot with a wide variety of Mediterranean flavors. |
| Orenchi Ramen | Strings Ramen | Authentic Japanese noodles and broths with a warm ambience. |
| Santana Row (various eateries) | State Street (various eateries) | Diverse dining options in a bustling area. |
| La Foret Restaurant | Harvest | Fine dining with a focus on local and seasonal cuisine. |
| Back A Yard | Jamerica | Authentic Caribbean flavors in a laid-back atmosphere. |
| Di Matteo's Pizza | Ian's Pizza | Unique and creative pizza options beloved by locals. |
| Adelita's Taqueria | BelAir Cantina | Mexican fare with inventive twists and a vibrant setting. |
| San Pedro Square Market (various eateries) | Madison Public Market (Opening soon; planned similar concept) | A hub for local food and culture. |
Exploring Madison's culinary scene will uncover delights that resonate with what you've cherished in San Jose. For instance, L'Etoile in Madison offers an exquisite farm-to-table dining experience similar to Manresa, catering to those who appreciate the art of fine dining. On a more casual note, The Old Fashioned delivers on the promise of hearty American cuisine with a local touch, akin to the timeless appeal of Original Joe's. For those nights when the craving for warmth and comfort hits, Strings Ramen serves up bowls of soul-soothing broth and noodles, echoing the authentic Japanese flavors found at Orenchi Ramen. It's not just about finding similar restaurants; it's about discovering places that carry forward the essence of your favorite flavors and atmospheres, bridging the gap between San Jose and Madison.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison highlights how San Jose, CA, and Madison, WI differ in key housing aspects, giving you a clearer picture of your potential new home. These insights into housing costs, architectural styles, and the lifestyle each city offers are essential for making an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Jose | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish Influence | Craftsman and Prairie |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to tech companies, eco-friendly features | Access to lakes, community events |
In evaluating your move from San Jose to Madison, you'll find a stark contrast in housing costs. Median home prices in San Jose soar, largely due to its location in Silicon Valley, where the tech industry fuels the market. Madison, by contrast, offers more affordable housing while providing access to natural beauty and a close-knit community vibe. Architectural styles also reflect the cities' unique characters, with San Jose embracing modernity and Madison celebrating traditional craftsmanship. Both cities prioritize outdoor activities and sustainable living, but Madison's higher bikeability scores echo its commitment to a greener, more accessible urban experience. These differences embody the lifestyle changes you might anticipate in such a relocation.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Madison, WI
1. Williamson-Marquette: This neighborhood is known for its community vibe and welcoming atmosphere, where you'll often see pets and their owners enjoying the many local parks and pet-friendly cafes.
2. Nakoma League: With its close proximity to the UW Arboretum, your pets will love the extensive trails and natural areas ideal for long walks and exploration.
3. Shorewood Hills: This area boasts ample green spaces and a pet-friendly attitude, with easy access to the Shorewood Hills Pool for summer dog swims and several off-leash parks nearby.
San Jose vs. Madison Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another involves many changes, one of the most impactful being the weather. Understanding how the climate in San Jose compares to Madison will help you prepare for your new home. This comparison highlights the key differences in weather patterns, which can influence everything from your wardrobe to your daily activities.
San Jose, CA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Jose to Madison, you'll find a significant difference in winter temperatures and snowfall. Whereas San Jose enjoys a mild winter, Madison experiences harsh cold with a considerable amount of snow, which may require an adjustment in your typical winter routine, including the need for warmer clothing and snow removal equipment. Furthermore, Madison's summer climate is fairly comparable to San Jose's, though you should expect more rainy days. Understanding these differences allows you to plan accordingly, ensuring a smooth transition to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Madison
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications. This comparison aims to shed light on the various economic aspects you'll encounter, moving from San Jose to Madison. Understanding the difference in costs and financial climate will help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Jose | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (max) | 7.65 (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 1.95 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 5.50 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Lower |
In moving from San Jose to Madison, you'll find a significant difference in the cost of living, with Madison being far more affordable. However, this comes with a trade-off, as the average household income in Madison is also lower. The difference in state income and sales tax rates further emphasizes the financial adjustment required. Despite a higher property tax rate in Madison, the overall economic environment may feel more manageable due to its moderate affluence level and lower cost of living. Additionally, the shift in dominant industries suggests a potential change in job opportunities, which could influence your career path and financial planning.
San Jose vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Jose & Madison , providing a snapshot to help you understand the community you'll be moving into.
| San Jose | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on tech and economic growth | Emphasis on education and progressive policies |
| Religion | Religiously diverse, with a significant Asian influence | More secular, with a variety of religious communities |
While both San Jose and Madison lean Democratic, Madison is known for its particularly strong progressive and liberal community. You might find Madison's local politics to be more focused on education and progressive initiatives, reflecting its large university presence and active political scene. Religiously, San Jose presents a tapestry of beliefs, particularly influenced by its significant Asian community. Madison, while having a variety of religious communities, tends to be more secular overall. Regardless of these differences, both cities offer a rich, engaging social and political environment that can cater to a wide range of perspectives and beliefs.
San Jose vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Jose, CA to Madison, WI requires an understanding of the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison helps you better grasp what your daily commute might look like, preparing you for a smooth transition between these two distinct cities.
| Comparison | San Jose | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but challenging | Easier than in San Jose |
While both San Jose and Madison offer unique living experiences, the differences in commuting can greatly impact your daily life. In San Jose, the average commute time is notably longer, and the city experiences higher levels of traffic congestion, making commuting by car more time-consuming. Although public transit options are available, living without a car in San Jose can present challenges. On the other hand, Madison provides a slightly more commuter-friendly environment, with shorter average commute times and lower traffic congestion. The availability and efficiency of public transit in Madison also means that getting around without a car is generally more feasible, making it an important consideration for those looking to move.
Additional Resources
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